TRANSDERMAL DELIVERY OF DICLOFENAC SODIUM FROM PLURONIC AND OTHER CONVENTIONAL FORMULATIONS

The transdermal delivery of diclofenac sodium from Pluronic F-127 and three marketed commercial formulations of diclofenac sodium (Voltaren Emulgel, Olfen gel and Rheumaren gel) was studied across excised hairl ess mouse skin. The skirt permeation of diclofenac sodium from Pluroni c F-127 gels was significantly affected by the Pluronic F-127 concentr ation. Higher permeation ratios and steady-state fluxes were observed with lower Pluronic F-127 concentrations. The addition of 10% (w/w) is opropyl alcohol to Pluronic F-127 gels significantly increased the per meation ratios and permeability coefficients of diclofenac sodium as c ompared to Pluronic F-127 gels or to the commercial formulations. Reas onable skin permeation was observed with Olfen gel and Voltaren Emulge l while lower skin permeation was observed with Rheumaren gel. These r esults agreed with the in vitro release studies.